We congratulate our Citizen of the Year.

(City of Moonee Valley)Essendon Blog congratulates John Walsh who has been named Moonee Valleys Citizen of the Year at the annual Spirit of Moonee Valley Awards held at the Clocktower Centre. Mr Walsh also won the Contribution to Neighbourhood category for his exceptional dedication and contribution to the Moonee Valley community over the past 50 years.

Mayor Cr Ben Opie said Mr Walshs influence had been felt by Moonee Valley citizens of all ages. John has been involved in everything from scouts to Rotary.

He was instrumental in the formation of the East Keilor Leisure Centre Swimming Club in 1968 and was a voluntary learn to swim instructor for 20 years. Since 2002 he has been the President of Keilor Hostel for the Aged, which operates Holloway Hostel in East Keilor. This not-for-profit centre cares for 40 of our frail and aged citizens. He has recently been involved in overseeing a $3.5 million expansion to cater for an additional 30 citizens who require high care attention.

John demonstrates enthusiasm and humility in his volunteer work. He has assisted and guided a wide variety of people in many ways and his legacy will be felt for many years to come, Cr Opie said.

Now in its eighth year, the Spirit of Moonee Valley Community Awards recognise the contributions of volunteers within the community including individuals, groups and businesses. The awards celebrate their dedication to improving the quality and sustainability of the Moonee Valley lifestyle.